Theodore "Ted" PIERCE

PIERCE, Theodore "Ted"

Theodore "Ted" Pierce of Coventry passed away on Thursday (September 26, 2013) in the comfort of his home. He was born on June 13, 1924 in Brewster, MA, the son of the late Alton and Myra (Briggs) Pierce. Ted grew up on Cape Cod and in March of 1943 at age 19, he enlisted in the Army Air Corp, serving in the 390th Bomb Group of the 569th Squadron as a waist gunner aboard the B-17 flying fortress "Geronimo". Ted was a decorated World War II hero who flew on 35 successful missions over occupied Europe, including two missions on D-Day. Ted's brother Alton F. Pierce Jr., who predeceased him in 2008, also served with him on the "Geronimo" as a top-turret gunner. There were very few B-17's that actually flew the maximum allowed number of 35 missions, as the life expectancy of a crew was virtually zero. After valiantly and courageously serving his country, Ted returned to the U.S. where he met and married Kathleen (McNamara) Pierce. Ted and Kathy built a home in Coventry where they raised their three children. Kathleen passed away in May of 2003. Ted was also predeceased by his son, Theodore Pierce, Jr. in 2002, and his brother Norman F. Pierce. Ted was avid golfer, accomplished woodworker and loved camping with his family and friends. He was employed for many years as a Teamster for several area trucking companies, retiring at age 62. In 1987 he began working for Landie Construction in Bolton until his second retirement at age 85. Ted leaves a daughter, Laurel Montiel of Manchester, a son David Pierce and his wife Karen of Coventry, six grandchildren; David Pierce Jr., Jaclyn (Pierce) LaBier, Michael Pierce, Eric Pierce, Erin Montiel, Meg Montiel and seven great-grandchildren as well as nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Pierce and his wife Beverly of Storrs, his sister Barbara (Pierce) Cirone of Cromwell, his daughter-in-law Diane Pierce of Mansfield, and his sisters-in-law Natalie Pierce, and Shirley Pierce. Ted wanted thanks given to his caregivers, including the Visiting Nurses of Vernon and close friends who supported him throughout his illness and final days.
Memorial donations in Ted's memory can be made to Visiting Nurses and Health Services of CT, Inc., 8 Keynote Dr., Vernon, CT 06066 or online at www.vnhsc.org Ted will be laid to rest with full military honors on Saturday, October 5 at 2 p.m. at a graveside service at St. Mary's Cemetery, Route 31 in Coventry. There are no calling hours. Pietras Family Funeral home in Coventry is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences please visit: www.pietrasfuneralhome.com.